Believed they landed in islands of Asia, known as the Indies, they named the people they encountered "los indios" or Indians.

Columbus's findings excited Spanish monarchs- sent more explorers to region.

September 1493- Columbus commanded fleet of 17 ships, & hundreds of armed soldiers back to San SalvadorImpact on Native AmericansColonization- establishment of distant settlements controlled by parent country- established long before Columbus.

Europeans learned advantages of plantation system & economic benefits of forced labor. Also, used European weapons to dominate those with lesser weapons- all used against Indians

Indians fought back using poison arrows, but no match for Columbus & crew

European settlers brought measles, mumps, chicken pox, small pox- Native Americans had no immunity- 1/3 of population died during Columbus's time-1508- less than 100k left- 1560's- only two villages remainedThe Slave Trade BeginsDisease reduced number of natives able to work so they turned to Africa for slaves. More than 12 million would come over in coming years

African slaves seen as more valuable & useful than native slaves.

Slave trade became so large, became an essential part of European-American economic system.Impact on EuropeansColumbus's voyages opened eyes of merchants & monarchs to make money

Ordinary folk saw chance to live in a new world

New plants & animals were sent back from Americas to Europe & Africa. Items were also brought from Eastern Hemisphere to Western Hemisphere. Transfer of living things known as Columbian exchange